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Published on: August 4, 2021
A novel method for oral stimulant administration in the neonate rat and similar species
Tracey L Wheeler1, Amy K Eppolito, Laura N Smith
1Department of Psychology, MS 3F5, George Mason University, 4400 University Dr., Fairfax, VA 22030, United States. twheele2@gmu.edu
Insights
This study introduces a novel, non-invasive oral methylphenidate (MPH) dosing method for rats. This technique is minimally invasive and suitable for various developmental stages, offering a valuable alternative for rodent research.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
- Animal Models
Background:
- Methylphenidate (MPH) is commonly used therapeutically in humans via oral administration.
- Rodent models are crucial for studying MPH effects, necessitating reliable oral dosing methods.
- Previous oral dosing techniques in rodents have limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel, non-invasive oral administration technique for methylphenidate (MPH) in rats.
- To assess the feasibility and comparability of this method to existing techniques.
- To provide a valuable tool for future behavioral and pharmacological studies in rodents.
Main Methods:
- Sixty Long-Evans hooded rats received 1, 2, or 5mg/kg MPH in apple juice on postnatal days 15 or 40.
- A novel, non-invasive oral administration technique was employed.
- Plasma MPH concentrations were analyzed 15 minutes post-ingestion using HPLC-MS.
Main Results:
- The novel oral administration technique successfully delivered methylphenidate (MPH) to rats.
- HPLC-MS analysis confirmed plasma MPH levels comparable to traditional gavage methods.
- The method proved effective and reproducible in subsequent behavioral studies.
Conclusions:
- The developed non-invasive oral MPH dosing technique is a viable and effective method for rodent research.
- This technique is minimally invasive, versatile across developmental stages, and does not rely on voluntary intake.
- It offers a valuable alternative for oral methylphenidate administration in preclinical studies.
Abstract:
Sixty male and female Long-Evans hooded rats were administered 1, 2, or 5mg/kg methylphenidate (MPH) suspended in apple juice on postnatal day (P)15 or P40 using a novel, non-invasive oral administration technique. Plasma was collected 15 min after ingestion and analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) to confirm appropriate concentrations. HPLC-MS plasma analysis showed levels comparable to previous gavage studies using MPH. We have used this method successfully in subsequent behavioral studies as well. Since therapeutic MPH in humans is typically administered orally, oral dosing methods that have been verified in the rodent model are of value. We recommend employment of this alternative oral dosing technique as it is minimally invasive, can be used anytime during postnatal development, and does not depend upon voluntary consumption.
